Tag: small processing plant

Interested in starting a meat processing business? Whether you’re early in your research, planning to open a new plant, or expanding an existing operation, explore our blog for practical information, real-world guidance, and stories of hardworking Americans who are getting after it.

At Friesla, we’re helping farmers, ranchers, and entrepreneurs build independent meat processing businesses in communities across the country. Explore our resources on starting a meat processing business, the basics of meat processing, USDA inspection requirements, available grants and funding opportunities, and other practical information on building and running a successful operation.


The meat processing equipment, sanitization system, three basin sink, wall-mounted shelves, and ceiling-mounted evaporators in a Friesla Cut and Package Module.

SBA Manufacturing in America E2G Grant: Requirements, Eligibility & Application Steps

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has announced up to $50 million in funding through its Manufacturing in America Empower to Grow (E2G) Grant Initiative…

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A butcher breaks down a beef carcass in the Cut and Package Module of a Friesla Meat Processing System.

Meat Processing Plant Sizes & Where Friesla Fits

The meat processing industry has consolidated dramatically over the past several decades, moving from local and regional systems to a highly centralized model—even though small…

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An interior view of the guillotine door and other harvest equipment in the Processing Room in a Friesla Harvest Module.

USDA Announces $123 Million to Expand Meat & Poultry Processing

USDA Rural Development announced the availability of $123 million in grant funding for meat processors through Phase 2 of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion…

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Beef half carcass tagged with lot and traceability number hanging in a cooler.

Explained: 4 Types of Inspection for Meat Processors

There are many steps to moving a finished animal from pasture or feedlot to steak on a plate. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulates…

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Friesla Friesla Mobile Harvest Unit on Five Marys Ranch used for slaughtering beef in the winter. Harvest Unit on Five Marys Ranch used for slaughtering beef in the winter.

Q&A Session: USDA Grants & Mobile/Modular Meat Processing Equipment

Two meat processing grant programs are in the spotlight in summer 2023: USDA’s Local Meat Capacity Grant Program (Local MCap) and Indigenous Animals Harvesting and…

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Butcher team skinning a Black Angus beef cow in a Friesla mobile harvest trailer.

Q&A Session: Mobile Harvest Units & Small Processing Plants

Wondering how to start and operate a small meat processing plant or Mobile Harvest Unit? Learn straight from the source. Hear about the background, operations,…

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